Peeling

/ˈpiːlɪŋ/

Meaning & Definition

noun
the act or process of removing an outer layer or coating.
The peeling of the old wallpaper revealed the original paint underneath.
the flakes or layers that have been removed during the peeling process.
There were bits of peeling scattered on the floor after the renovation.
verb
the act of removing the outer layer from a fruit or vegetable.
She was peeling an apple for the pie.
to strip away the outer covering or skin of something.
He spent the afternoon peeling paint off the old dresser.

Etymology

Derived from the verb 'peel' which originates from Old English 'pyllian' meaning 'to remove the skin of'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

peel back the layers
To reveal the underlying truth or details of a situation.
peeling paint
Paint that is coming off a surface, revealing what is underneath.
peeling off
To remove something layer by layer.

Related Words

peel
The outer skin of a fruit or vegetable.
skin
The outer layer of an organism.
flaking
Coming off in small, thin pieces.

Slang Meanings

To lose skin or layers, often used in reference to sunburn.
After the beach trip, I'm totally peeling!
To take off quickly or abruptly.
We need to peel out of here before it gets crowded.